Hyderabad Police Unveils Major Cyber Fraud Operation, Arrests 104 Suspects

Significant Crackdown on Cyber Fraud

Hyderabad, Feb 24: In a significant operation, the Hyderabad Police have successfully dismantled a nationwide cyber fraud network, resulting in the arrest of 104 individuals across 16 states.

Over a period of 10 days, at least 32 specialized teams executed 'Operation Octopus', as announced by Hyderabad Police Commissioner V.C. Sajjanar on Tuesday.

Under the guidance of DCP (Cybercrimes) V. Aravind Babu, the police conducted a well-coordinated effort against cybercrime syndicates operating throughout the nation.

The arrested suspects are connected to 1,055 cyber fraud cases reported across India, with an estimated total fraud amounting to around ₹127 crore, according to the Commissioner’s statement.

During this extensive operation, authorities confiscated 204 mobile devices, 141 SIM cards, 152 bank passbooks, 234 debit and credit cards, 26 laptops, 56 corporate stamps, and ₹36 lakh in cash.

The operation spanned multiple states, including Maharashtra, Delhi, Rajasthan, West Bengal, Karnataka, Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, Haryana, Punjab, Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Madhya Pradesh, Bihar, Uttarakhand, and Odisha.

Commissioner Sajjanar highlighted a recent increase in cases where victims have fallen victim to investment scams, trading frauds, and 'Digital Arrest' scams, leading to significant financial losses.

Cyber fraudsters have been exploiting the trust of unsuspecting individuals, draining their bank accounts through manipulation, intimidation, and emotional pressure.

In response to this alarming trend, 'Operation Octopus' was initiated to deliver a strong counteraction against these illegal operations. Following a thorough investigation into the rise of such frauds, the Cyber Crime Police Station (CCPS) in Hyderabad pinpointed a network of 151 bank accounts used to divert victims’ funds, as stated by Sajjanar.

Through careful intelligence gathering and forensic analysis, these 151 accounts were identified as channels for laundering illicit gains. To dismantle this intricate network, 32 specialized teams of experienced investigators were formed. The operation was executed simultaneously across 16 states, leading to the apprehension of 104 key individuals involved in the fraud.

Among those arrested was a Relationship Manager from Bandhan Bank, who was implicated in assisting fraudsters in the establishment and management of fake accounts.

'Operation Octopus' remains an ongoing initiative, with investigations continuing to target the upper echelons of these criminal syndicates.

A clear message is being communicated: anyone found involved in such crimes—regardless of their position or influence—will face consequences. Every lead will be followed, and offenders will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.

Individuals aiding cybercriminals, including bank officials and holders of mule accounts, will be dealt with severely under the law, the Police Commissioner affirmed.